OBITUARIES

Craig Anthony McKinley

McKINLEY, Craig Anthony - July 14, 1964 - February 18th, 2013 - It is with great sadness that the McKinley Clan announces the sudden passing of Craig. In his time on earth Craig managed to live a tremendously rich life while also contributing greatly to his community, his patients and the medical profession. His accomplishments and contributions will not be forgotten. In fact, February 2013 is the tenth anniversary of his having performed the world's first telerobotic surgery at the North Bay General Hospital. His desire to ensure that patients in all parts of the province received first rate medical care, and his pioneering laparoscopic surgical techniques are only some of the ways that demonstrate his vision to make the world a better place to live in. In his personal life he was an avid sports enthusiast, funny, generous and the proud father of Samanta (Sammi) and Jessica (Jessi) McKinley. A highlight of Craig's career was to be certified as an Aquanaut and he worked for NASA in Aquarius, which is The World's Only Undersea Laboratory where he engaged in virtual reality surgical training in microgravity. He was involved in NASA's NEEMO 7 project, which tested remote health care procedures so as to be able to assist astronauts with medical emergencies on The International Space Station, the Moon or Mars. However, despite this truly remarkable experience, those who knew him would agree that the true, bright shining stars in his universe were his daughters. He was 'one of a kind' and will be missed. There will be a cremation and Craig's ashes will be taken home to the East Coast. In the interim, the family will receive visitors at Craig's residence Saturday between 1:00 and 3:00pm. The McKinley family has asked that in lieu of flowers, any condolences be sent to their address: 5 Shibu Court, Fredericton, NB E3A 4T6. Online condolences can be sent to www.Martynfh.com and donations to The Canadian Mental Health Association would be greatly appreciated. 12283554

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Good memories!

Posted by Huguette Morin (OR nurse at W.N.G.H.Worked with him.) On Monday, March 11, 2013All my sympathies to all the family. Will always remember his 40th birthday we surprised him at work in the OR in Sturgeon.May he rest in peace.

Sad to hear of Craigs death

Posted by Bill de Monye (Old friend and classmate) On Thursday, March 7, 2013Craig and I attended the same Graduating class at UNB BSc EE. My wife and I have fond memories of Craig and his Kawasaki 1000. I am sure he will be missed by those he cherished and those who loved him.

my deepest sympathies

Posted by Ghislaine Rivet (patient) On Tuesday, February 26, 2013In December 2004, Dr. McKinley performed on me a telerobotic nissan to repair my hiatus hernia with great success. I personally knew him when he came to West Nipissing General Hospital to perform surgeries etc. as I worked there. He was a very pleasant person & I will forever remember him.

Our thoughts are with you!

Posted by Bill & Dorothy Langford (Patient) On Saturday, February 23, 2013My wife and I mourn your loss. Craig was a special person who could converse with anyone and leave an impression. In my darkest hours he comforted me and saved my life. He will be missed....

Generous friend

Posted by Janice shulman (Friend) On Saturday, February 23, 2013Want you to know that Craig was very generous and kind to myself and especially my husband when he was dying of cancer. He even lent Garry his porche so he could have the pleasure of driving it during a race. His generosity was so appreciated. He was also very helpful to my son Scott when he moved to North Bay. You will feel very sad but also very proud of all his accomplishments. My thoughts are with you.